Distracted walking accidents on the rise
We often hear about the dangers of texting and driving, but there are growing concerns over distracted walking are growing as well. People are becoming more and more attached to their smart phones these days. On Christmas Day in San Diego, a man fell off a cliff to his death. Turns out, he was walking and was distracted by his cell phone. Though that may be uncommon, there are more distracted walking accidents than you might think.
“Well smart phones are really addictive. I understand why people would want to look at them instantaneously any time it beeps or goes off, but it’s really not safe and you’d want to end up in your house as opposed to the emergency department so I’d just remember to let that wait until you get to where you’re going,” says Nik Greenson, ER Physician with Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.
About 80% of injuries are caused by falls. Surprisingly, 52% of distracted walking injuries occur at home.
On a positive note, 78% of americans agree that distracted walking is a serious issue, so hopefully the average cell phone user will start looking up before walking around.
As all drivers know, distracted driving has become a crime that could include very serious consequences. Distracted walking may not be against the law, but in any case, being attentive and common sense should always win. Walk safe everyone.
